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Steelers' Roman Wilson Sends Big Update To Fans Ahead Of 2025 NFL Season
Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected wide receiver Roman Wilson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft with the belief that he could make an immediate impact. The team saw potential in his speed, route-running, and ability to stretch the field, hoping he would strengthen a wide receiver group in need of depth. Unfortunately, Wilson’s rookie season was derailed before it began, as he suffered an ankle injury early in the offseason. Just as he was recovering, he was hit with another injury, which kept him from fully participating and gaining rhythm with the offense.

Head Coach Mike Tomlin later acknowledged that the timing and pace of the season made it extremely difficult for Wilson to integrate into the lineup, especially given how quickly things move in the NFL. As a result, Wilson’s first year became more about recovery and observation than contribution. However, things have changed heading into 2025. With George Pickens now traded, a major void has opened in the wide receiver room. The Steelers will be counting on younger talent like Wilson to step up and help carry the load in the passing game.

Fans have been eager to see what Wilson can do with a clean bill of health and a full offseason to prepare. His name has been a frequent topic among Steelers faithful, especially with the increased opportunity ahead. During the team’s first Organized Team Activities of the year, Wilson made it clear through his presence and intensity that he’s approaching the 2025 season with focus and determination. The stage is now set for him to prove why the Steelers invested a Day 2 pick in his potential.

"I’ve taken care of my body to an elite level," Wilson said. "I’ve been more locked in. I feel like myself."

Wilson was a standout during his college career, even while playing in a run-heavy offensive system that limited his opportunities in the passing game. Despite the constraints, he consistently made the most of his chances, showcasing his speed, route-running, and ability to make tough catches. 

The Steelers saw his potential and believed his playing style and mentality were a perfect match for the toughness and tradition of football in the Steel City. That belief led them to draft him in the third round, confident that with time and development, Wilson could become a key contributor. However, his rookie season quickly turned into a frustrating experience, marred by injuries that kept him sidelined and unable to gain traction in a weaker receiver room.

Even so, it would be unfair to judge Wilson solely based on his first season. His limited action was due more to circumstance than performance, and the 2024 season became more about recovery and learning than production. As he heads into the 2025 campaign, Wilson is healthy and fully focused, ready to prove that he belongs in the NFL. 

With the Steelers offense going through a transition and moving on from several key players, including Pickens, there is a clear need for someone to emerge and fill that void. The wide receiver group, in particular, will need to elevate its play, and Wilson has an opportunity to be at the forefront of that shift.

Steelers Need A Big Season From Roman Wilson In 2025

The Steelers made a major move in the offseason by acquiring star wide receiver DK Metcalf via trade. Metcalf will be the clear number one option in the passing attack, but the rest of the depth chart features receivers who are still trying to define themselves. That creates a wide-open path for players like Wilson to earn meaningful roles and contribute in a big way. 

The wide receiver room is filled with potential, but it lacks proven consistency outside of Metcalf. If Wilson can stay healthy and translate his college talent to the pro level, his breakout in 2025 would provide a much-needed spark to the offense and help solidify a position group that is looking for stability

This article first appeared on SteelerNation.com and was syndicated with permission.

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